Moore presented a PowerPoint called “Living Our Vision,” which offered a look into every aspect of Geyser Road Elementary School.

One focus is readily apparent from the work shown on the walls: student writing. The essays displayed are written in careful cursive, often accompanied by illustrations.

“Writing is important here,” Moore said. “We’re teaching them to be thinkers; to put themselves into their writing.”

She gave the board an example, one student’s essay about heartbreak: “Wet salty droplets fall from my beating red eyes ... I have just been told that my father is in jail.”

When the student’s father gets his college degree, the child is enormously proud and understands that good can come out of hardship.

Focusing on math as well as literacy, Geyser Road offers morning and after-school tutoring, Arts in Education, Family Math Night and an “all hands on deck” approach in which every teacher and staff member help children who need extra academic support throughout the school day.

Special classes include filmmaking, animation and Lego Robotics.

“Character education is very strong at Geyser,” Moore said. “Discipline isn’t really an issue here. The kids know right from wrong, make good choices and look out for each other.”

The oldest students work with the youngest ones, creating leadership and becoming role models.

A large challenge facing the school is building a new playground, which will have a parklike feel and aesthetic, Moore said. The school community has raised $35,000 so far and plans to break ground in the summer.

“I want the outside of our building to replicate the great things inside,” the principal said.